FAQ’s

Some common questions we encounter….

Q: What do I need to do to get started?

A: Determine your move route, choosing the widest and closest route that has the least amount of obstacles (overhead utilities / trees). Measure the overall width of the structure, eave-to-eave or gutter-to-gutter, then make sure you have at least that distance between utility poles or big trees that are across from each other.


Q: Can the foundation be constructed before moving?

A: The lot that the structure is being moved to will dictate if the foundation needs to be constructed before the move. This will be determined by Tugaloo House Movers, LLC. We will need to coordinate certain aspects with the foundation contractor before actual construction of the new foundation.


Q: How far can a building be moved?

A: This depends on the type of building and which part of the state the building is located in. In most cases, after a permit is obtained, the building can be moved with proper supervision and standby equipment. When moving a building over one and a half stories high, utility wires may have to be raised which increases the moving price according to the wires involved.


Q: How much does it cost to raise or lower overhead utilities?

Every utility company (electric, telephone, cable TV, traffic signals) has their own method of pricing and will have to be contracted separately by the homeowner.


Q: Does a building have to be completely empty before and while being moved?

A: We carry Cargo Insurance which covers the contents of the structure during the move. About half the buildings we move are still occupied.


Q: What are the reasons you move buildings or houses?

A: Structures are moved for all kinds of reasons – because they sit on land that is being developed, are historically significant, or fall in the path of highways, railroads, reservoirs, or urban renewal. Sometimes a move is made to rescue a structure and relocate it to an area where its value is increased. Typically, moves are initiated when no other options are available.


Q: Why elevate a structure or replace the foundation?

A: New foundations or floor joists add to the longevity of the structure as well as the value. In some areas, “plastic soil” and poor drainage are common problems that cause foundations to crack and leak. Why repair or pier a wall when we can replace it for a comparable cost? Another reason is to improve drainage or raise a structure above the flood levels. Homes on crawl spaces can be raised to add a full basement or a whole new first floor for added living spaces.


Q: Can a brick block or stone building be raised?

 A: We specialize in masonry structures. We use an exclusive unified hydraulic jacking system. This system enables one man to control the entire jacking operation. The jacks are locked together by a unifying system and will raise and lower in unison regardless of individual jack loading. Each unified jack is on a separate hydraulic circuit and failure in one jack will not cause pressure loss in the other jacks. This system can accommodate from one to thirty-eight 100 ton rams in unison. This system is essential when making large, irregular lifts. Accept No Imitations!


Q: What sort of damage can we expect from raising our home?

A: Minor stress cracks may occur upon elevation but the degree of cracking depends upon the amount of settlement that has occurred in your old foundation. If major damage were to occur it would be covered by our insurance.


Q: What is the process of raising a home?

A: First the structure is excavated around to allow for holes to be made in your current foundation, then the steel beams are placed in these openings. Once the beams are placed the home is elevated hydraulically using the unified jack system. Typically the home is then excavated out underneath to allow for your new basement pour. Sometimes, if there is enough room on your lot the home can be moved out of its current site and then transferred back to its original site. Once the new foundation is cured the home is then lowered back down and the beams are pulled.

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Q: Does Tugaloo House Movers build the new foundation?

A: YES! We do any type of repairs on foundations associated with the movement or raiseing of a structure.


Q: Does Tugaloo House Movers do the excavating under the raised home?

A: We do all excavation under raised homes.


Q: Can additional porches and attached garages on slabs be raised with the home?

A:  Absolutely. THM can lift practically any structure.


Q: Will Tugaloo House Movers  act as a general contractor or should I get a general contractor to oversee my project?

A: We do act as a general contractor in some cases but most of our projects are very specific to the particular move or raise taking place. We suggest if you have some construction knowledge and have established relations with the contractors involved that a general contractor is not needed.


Q: What contractors will need to be involved?

A: Although Tugaloo House Movers has two licensed general contractors on staff, a Plumber, HVAC, foundation contractor, some cases electrician, some cases carpenter may need to be done separately. Depending on the individual job, of course.


Q: What type of permit is required to move or raise a home?

A: In most cases a building permit is required.


Q: How much will it cost to relocate a house, building or structure?

A: There are numerous factors that contribute to determining the cost of relocating a house, building or structure. For instance, the structure’s size, age, and location all factor in to the cost of relocation. However, we are more than happy to assess your needs and give you the best possible relocation quote, contact us today.


Q: Does relocating a building, house or structure harm its integrity?

A: When you use a skilled and experienced mover, like Tugaloo House Movers,  there is little-to-no risk of harming your structure’s integrity. THM takes every precaution to ensure that your house or building is moved with the utmost care and precision. Contact us to learn more.


Q: How long does it take to relocate a house or building?

A: The time it takes to relocate a house or building varies depending on how far it is being moved, the size of the structure, the structure’s limitations, move route, and external factors. Contact us for an estimate on how long it may take to move your house or building.


My house is in a flood zone; can Tugaloo House Movers help me?

A: YES. We specialize in elevating structures in flood zones so that homeowners can stay in their neighborhoods, protect their homes from flooding, and lower their flood insurance rates. Contact us to find out how we can help you protect your home from flooding.


Q: Will relocating a historical building or structure affect its classification?

A: There is a chance your classification will change, so we suggest that you consult with your State Historic Preservation officer before you plan on relocating. Contact us for more information in determining if relocating is right for your structure.


Q: Will moving my house or building affect its resale value?

A: Your house or building’s location is an incredibly important variable that contributes to its resale value. The location in which you plan to relocate to must be considered prior to moving. However, in our past experience, houses and buildings are typically worth more after relocation because owners typically move them to a more valuable site.


Q: Is it necessary to buy separate insurance before a house, building or structure move/elevation?

No, Tugaloo House Movers carries an all-risk cargo insurance policy that covers any damage to a structure. The unique cargo coverage pays for direct physical loss or damage to covered property including buildings, houses, or structures. Contact us for more information on the insurance we provide.


Q: Do I need to notify my mortgage company prior to moving my house, building, or structure?

A: Yes, the mortgage company that financed the purchase of your house, building, or structure, also financed for the land on which it is located. You must make your mortgage company aware of the move and the change of address. You must have their written approval before any structure can be moved. Contact us, and we can help you work with your mortgage company prior to a move.


Q: Am I responsible for damage to other properties that may occur during the move?

A:  No. Tugaloo House Movers is responsible for any damage to other properties that may happen during the course of your move. However, if we are just raising your house, building or structure (and not relocating it), we are not responsible for any damage that may happen to neighboring properties. For more information on liabilities, please contact us, and we will answer any question you may have.


Q: …Seems like a lot of details; how will I know who is responsible for what on my project?

A: Tugaloo House Movers will provide a comprehensive, detailed outline of all parties and contractors and their corresponding responsibilities. We will make sure you have all of the information you need throughout your entire project and make sure you are comfortable with every step in the process.  Contact us today to start planning your move.